The Giallorossi had their hands on the title until Diego Milito's goal against Siena at the 59th minute.

“Inter had to be the champions of Italy,” shrugged Ranieri on Sky Italia television.

“I have to thank these lads for their extraordinary achievement. I arrived when we were propping up the table, fans were protesting and certain stars weren't kicking into gear, but the players stood by me and did something incredible to fight back.

“Massimo Moratti's Inter were expected to win, but Roma in my view were the real protagonists, as we opened up a Scudetto race that had seemed locked down.

“We promised the fans we would go all the way. We didn't stop until the final whistle this afternoon.

“Our compliments to Inter, but I must hug every one of my players. Roma were marvellous and went 24 games unbeaten, so it is a positive campaign.”